This past weekend, I exhibited my artwork at ValleyCon 2025 at the Fargo Air Museum. As someone who has attended this show for years, seeing it in a new location had its challenges, but it’s always a joy to return and connect with the local creative community.
Artist Alley Highlights
The best part of the weekend was building relationships with fellow creators:
- John Vogel and Chad Mauch from Zynvaded! EVO – Have a really fun independent miniatures game, and I had a blast drawing their base grub figure and discussing potential future collaborations with Chad’s laser etching work, and John’s 3D modeling and printing capabilities.
- Nicholas Jackson – A talented artist and illustrator from Bemidji and a fellow BSU art program alumnus. It was great meeting and chatting in person after being aware of his work for years. A professional children’s book illustrator asking for tips about doing comic conventions was humbling.
- Jax Rose – Absolutely crushed his first convention, completing multiple commissions and showcasing an impressive Copic airbrush system, working quickly, and befriending all of the 501st.
- Ella Burns – Another first-timer who knocked it out of the park. Her button commissions were a hit with attendees throughout the weekend. Watching over her shoulder, I even learned a thing or two.
- Finn Harrison – Finished another complete comic before the show and continues to blow me away! His skills are improving at an incredible rate, and his M.A.S.K vehicle commission was amazing.
These relationships are what make pop culture conventions worthwhile. The camaraderie in artist alley was exceptional, and I’m grateful to be part of this community.
Sales and Performance
The weekend was modest financially, though Sunday surprisingly outperformed Saturday. Fan art prints did well – Goku, South Park, Pikachu, and Derpy Tiger were popular choices, and a special shout-out to fellow long-time ValleyCon artist Sheldon Martin for picking up both my original Space Horror prints – thank you!
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the ValleyCon team for putting on another year of the show, and to everyone who stopped by my table. Your support and conversations made the weekend memorable.
One moment stands out: a young person asked their mom, “How do I tell an artist I appreciate their art?” The mom initially replied, “Buy their work,” but then paused and corrected herself: “Tell them you appreciate their art.” The child looked at me and said simply, “I appreciate your art.”
It was a touching reminder that not all meaningful exchanges come with financial equity. That moment filled my heart with joy and reminded me why I do this work. Genuinely, thank you to everyone who looked, talked, and encouraged my work in any form—whether through purchases, kind words, or just stopping to see what I create. Your response is meaningful, even if it’s just a few words. These connections refuel my creative spirit.
Next up: Twin Cities Con!
My last show of the year will also be my biggest to date. I look forward to greeting and seeing the expected 40,000 attendees on November 7-9 at the Minneapolis Convention Center! Let’s see how many booth improvements and new artworks I can get done before then!